Image Consultant

From LoveToKnow Makeup

What exactly is an Image Consultant and how can they help us? LoveToKnow went directly to the source for our answer. Enjoy our exclusive interview with Dana Persia the owner and principal consultant for DP Image Consulting.

About Dana Persia - Image Consultant

Dana runs her image consulting company with a true passion about personal image. DP Image Consulting covers everything from makeup and grooming, etiquette, wardrobe analysis, personal shopping, and interpersonal communications. With a strong background in communications and the corporate business world, Dana began her path to image consultant with a license in esthetics. Developing her skills and techniques through various jobs in the spa industry, she eventually branched out on her own with DP Image Consulting.

Interview with Dana

What exactly is an Image Consultant?

As an independent professional, an image consultant guides you in presenting yourself to your best advantage and in expressing your highest potential. Whether you’re an individual or a corporation, an image consultant can teach you how to polish your professional image in three key areas—physical, behavior, and communication.

What is the advantage of hiring one?

Clients get the perspective of an objective outsider—and that outsider is someone who makes it her business to know the latest trends, techniques and tricks to bring out the client’s full potential. Whether it’s taking a fresh look at a tired wardrobe, learning how to apply makeup for the first time, or simply discovering what “not” to say in an interview, it gives an individual an edge on their competition and an overall feeling of confidence.

What is the most common makeup flaw you find with your clients?

Either wearing too much or not enough - usually the latter. I find that a lot of women, out of a lack of technique or sheer laziness, leave the house each morning without looking and ultimately feeling their best because they don’t take an extra 10-15 minutes to adapt a simple makeup routine to their daily regime. A little under eye concealer, lip gloss and mascara can make a world of difference in no more than 8 minutes.

Before Makeup

After Makeup

Can you share some basic shopping tips when selecting makeup?

Know your skin type. Are you oily? Dry? Combination? This is extremely important when choosing foundation, powder, even eye shadow. You don’t have to spend a fortune to fill your cosmetics drawer. Some of the best products are the least expensive. Try visiting websites dedicated to beauty and makeup for the latest tips on buying from drugstores instead of high-end department stores.

What makeup advice do you have for those involved in a large event, like a wedding or speaking engagement?

Avoid heavily applied makeup for ALL first encounters including dates, job interviews, new client meetings, or the first day of a new job.

For weddings especially, do a “trial run” a week or two before your wedding day to test your look. Don’t choose your wedding day to try out something different than you’re used to--or that others are used to seeing you in for that matter.

If you normally do not wear makeup, take some time before a special event to assess your skill level. Enlist a friend or professional to help you with a simple face-enhancing routine. Use magazines for “look” ideas.

Do you have to coordinate makeup and clothes?

No. Not usually. A woman should have a “signature” look that can go with any ensemble. However, at times strong colors can often clash, like wearing a red blouse with an exceptionally pink or orange lipstick.

Do you ever recommend makeup for men?

The trend now is leaning toward this—entire lines are being introduced by well-known cosmetic giants that dedicate makeup and skincare to men. Makeup on men is a very personal choice in every day life and ideal if one has a blemish to hide, perhaps. Some of the younger generations are wearing eyeliner and bronzers to the clubs. I suggest more concentration on a good skincare regime emphasizing good shaving habits, moisturizing with an SPF, and eye treatments for lines and circles.

What is the most important new fashion trend in beauty?

My opinion on trends in beauty and fashion are they are mostly driven by the runways of Paris, Milan and NYC, and most “regular” people simply don’t have the time, money, or energy to keep up with this. Bottom line is we all want to look chic, sophisticated and put together, but not remain a slave to the industry and what’s in the magazines. Yes, the trend now might be wide-cinch belts over long sweaters and the return of leg warmers, but not everyone can wear this--or will want to. Find a look and make it yours. Own it and each season add a splash of something new but don’t break the bank trying to keep up. That’s the most important thing of all. Although advances in skincare and cosmetic products continue to come onto the market, makeup should be timeless and used in a way that enhances you naturally. Just because everyone is wearing smoky eyes this season doesn’t mean its right for everyone.

Anything else to add?

I don’t believe there are trends in makeup. Makeup is art. You don’t necessarily need to agree with all the trends set by the industry. It is most important to develop your own sense of style; this applies to women and men.